The 5 Most Popular Car Upgrades of 2025 (Chicago Edition)

Chicago Drivers Are Upgrading More Than Ever in 2025

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Chicago weather, traffic, and daily commutes are no joke - and in 2025, more drivers than ever are upgrading their vehicles for comfort, safety, and performance.


Here are the Top 5 Most Popular Car Upgrades of 2025, based on real installs at ABC Automotive & Electronics.





1. Remote Start Systems

Warm cars all winter long.

Chicago winters demand more than just a warm jacket — they require a warm car. Remote starts continue to be the #1 upgrade for Chicago drivers in 2025.


Why drivers choose it:

  • Pre-warms the car in freezing temperatures
  • Helps defrost the windshield
  • Protects your engine in extreme cold
  • Available with long-range remotes or smartphone control

Remote start is a game-changer for Midwest winters.





2. Window Tint (Ceramic + Standard)

Privacy, protection, and the perfect aesthetic.

Tint is no longer just a summer upgrade — Chicago drivers choose it year-round for comfort and style.


Benefits of adding tint:

  • Reduces heat in the cabin
  • Blocks harmful UV rays
  • Cuts down glare
  • Adds a sleek, clean look
  • Ceramic tint provides the best heat rejection

Ceramic tint continues to surge in popularity thanks to its premium performance.





3. Car Audio Upgrades (Bass, Speakers, CarPlay)

A better drive starts with better sound.

From hip hop to EDM to Latin music, Chicago knows sound — and customers want their vehicles to hit.


Most popular audio upgrades of 2025:

  • JBL BassPro 12 powered subwoofer
  • Upgraded speakers + amplifiers
  • Apple CarPlay / Android Auto receivers
  • Factory audio enhancement processors

Audio upgrades make every drive feel like a concert.





4. Backup Cameras & Dash Cams

Safety + peace of mind in the city.

Chicago’s tight parking, unexpected traffic, and crowded streets make safety upgrades more important than ever.


Why drivers choose these upgrades:

  • Reduce blind spots
  • Help with parallel parking
  • Provide video evidence in accidents
  • Protect vehicles while parked

These systems offer peace of mind in a busy city.




5. Safety & Emergency Vehicle Upgrades

Reliable equipment for vehicles that work hard.

We provide safety and emergency upgrades that improve visibility, functionality, and reliability - all installed with certified precision.


Popular Safety & Emergency Upgrades Include:

  • LED warning and safety lighting
  • Sirens and control systems
  • Customized wiring and electrical integration
  • Secure mounting solutions for essential equipment
  • Enhanced visibility features for roadside response

ABC Automotive has decades of experience installing advanced safety solutions with precision, reliability, and top-tier craftsmanship.



Why These Upgrades Dominate in Chicago

Chicago driving comes with unique challenges — harsh winters, heavy traffic, busy commutes, and limited parking. These five upgrades solve real problems and improve daily comfort, safety, and performance.


Ready to Upgrade Your Vehicle?

Whether you want better sound, a warmer start, or improved safety, ABC Automotive & Electronics has you covered.

📍 Berwyn & Elk Grove Village
🔧 Family-owned since 1958
🚗 Certified technicians & same-day installs on most services


ABC Automotive & Electronics – Berwyn
📍 6631 Ogden Ave, Berwyn, IL 60402
📞
(708) 488-9600

ABC Automotive & Electronics – Elk Grove Village
📍1401 Landmeier Rd, Elk Grove Village, IL 60007
📞
(847) 364-6700


Written by Victoria Faust, Marketing & Communications Manager — ABC Automotive & Electronics

By Victoria Faust December 3, 2025
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